Ito: Tattoo-friendly onsen, panoramic ocean views and capybaras

About a two-hour train ride from central Tokyo is Ito, an absolutely gorgeous and foreigner-friendly hot spring town with a ton of quirky attractions. Located on the eastern half of Shizuoka Prefecture’s Izu Peninsula, Ito’s oceanside location gives it a variety of natural landscapes, including mountains and panoramic ocean views. This city has more than just your average hot springs — just ask the cute capybaras there relaxing hard in the baths!

Along with seeing the famous hot spring capybaras, here are some of the best ways to enjoy a trip to Ito.

Treat yourself at Akazawa Onsen

The “infinity bath” at Akazawa Onsen puts you right at the ocean. Photo: akazawaonsenkyo2018

This tattoo-friendly hot spring resort is owned by Japanese cosmetic powerhouse DHC. For a luxurious spa experience, pamper yourself with DHC face, body, and hair products and then soak in open-air baths overlooking the Pacific Ocean. The resort has a variety of jacuzzi, saunas, whirlpool baths, and even a bowling alley to hang out in.

Apr. 19, 2019
04:51 am JST

Would love to go to a Japanese hot spring someday. Have been to a natural hot spring on the central California coast that is entirely wild, that only the locals know about. A ten-minute hike through the forest, it is very relaxing and refreshing. The sulfuric water seems to be good for the skin and the hair, at least in mild doses. No monkeys or capybaras, more is the pity. I wouldn't be surprised to find a bear taking a bath there, especially in the winter.